Signature Landmarks
The Forbidden City in Beijing is perhaps the country’s best illustration of imperial rule by Chinese emperors. Built in the early 15th century, the Forbidden City was home to emperors and their households for 500 years.
The walled city is massive — almost 1,000 buildings are there, and their courtyards stretch for acres. We joined thousands of Chinese visitors in touring its outer and inner courts. The first was for ceremonial events; the second held living quarters for the emperor’s vast household.
“The emperor had 3,000 concubines at any given time,” said May. “They stayed in the Forbidden City for life.”
Our last full day in China was reserved for enjoying its signature landmark. The Great Wall of China stretches nearly 4,000 miles, not including trenches, and most of it dates to the Ming Dynasty. Parts were built much earlier, as early as 700 B.C. We drove to Juyongguan Pass, where the massive wall traverses steep mountains into the horizon. I headed for the uppermost tower in the pass, hundreds of feet above us.
“Leave half of your energy for coming back down,” said May. “You have to be more careful coming down because the steps are very uneven.”
The following day, our day of departure, my legs ached from climbing as high and as fast as I did. The Chinese call that “noodle legs”.
It’s funny how travel ebbs and flows around the world due to political upheaval. Today, China could be considered one of the most stable of “exotic” destinations American groups can enjoy.
I’m ready to go back.
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